First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1scrub
noun, often attributive \ˈskrəb\
Definition of SCRUB
1
a : a stunted tree or shrub b : vegetation consisting chiefly of scrubs c : a tract covered with scrub
2
: a domestic animal of mixed or unknown parentage and usually inferior conformation : mongrel
3
: a person of insignificant size or standing
4
: a player not belonging to the first string
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Origin of SCRUB
Middle English, alteration of schrobbe, schrubbe shrub — more at shrub
2scrub
verb
: to rub (something) hard with a rough object or substance and often with soap in order to clean it
: to decide that (something, such as a game, performance, etc.) will not happen : to cancel (something)
scrubbedscrub·bing
Full Definition of SCRUB
transitive verb
1
2
: wash 6c(2)
intransitive verb
1
: to use hard rubbing in cleaning
2
: to prepare for performing surgery by scrubbing oneself
— scrub·ba·ble \ˈskrə-bə-bəl\ adjective
See scrub defined for English-language learners
Origin of SCRUB
of Low German or Scandinavian origin; akin to Middle Low German & Middle Dutch schrubben to scrub, Swedish skrubba
First Known Use: circa 1595
3scrub
noun
Definition of SCRUB
1
: an act or instance of scrubbing; especially : cancellation
2
a : one that scrubs b : a powerful and especially cosmetic cleanser
3
plural : loose-fitting clothing worn by hospital staff <surgical scrubs>
First Known Use of SCRUB
1621
SCRUB Defined for Kids
1scrub
verb \ˈskrəb\
scrubbedscrub·bing
Definition of SCRUB for Kids
: to rub hard in washing
2scrub
noun
Definition of SCRUB for Kids
: a thick growth of small or stunted shrubs or trees
3scrub
noun
Definition of SCRUB for Kids
: the act, an instance, or a period of rubbing hard in washing
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